Best Orange French Toast

There’s something truly special about starting your morning with a plate of warm, golden-brown French toast. The crisp edges, the fluffy center, and the perfect balance of sweetness make it a comforting breakfast favorite. But when you add the bright, citrusy flavor of fresh oranges, it takes this classic dish to a whole new level.

Orange French Toast is the perfect combination of cozy and refreshing. The subtle tartness of the oranges balances the richness of the custard-soaked bread, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and light. Whether you’re making it for a slow weekend brunch, a special holiday breakfast, or just to treat yourself on a regular morning, this recipe is bound to bring a little extra sunshine to your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright & Refreshing Flavor: The fresh orange zest and juice add a zesty kick to balance the sweetness.
• Perfectly Soft & Crispy Texture: The custard mixture soaks into the bread just enough to create a soft center while still achieving a golden, crispy exterior.
• Simple Yet Impressive: It’s an easy recipe with a gourmet feel—perfect for impressing family or guests.
• Customizable: You can dress it up with toppings like fresh fruit, maple syrup, powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 8 slices brioche or thick-cut bread
• 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)

For Serving:

• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh orange slices
• Whipped cream (optional)

How to Make Orange French Toast

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, orange juice, orange zest, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined. The orange zest will release its oils into the mixture, infusing it with a deep citrus aroma.

2. Preheat the Pan

Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to coat the surface, allowing it to melt completely. The butter will help create that golden-brown crust on the French toast.

3. Dip the Bread

One at a time, dip each slice of brioche into the custard mixture. Let it soak for a few seconds on each side—just enough to absorb the flavors but not too long that it falls apart. Gently shake off any excess custard before placing the bread on the heated skillet.

4. Cook to Perfection

Cook each slice for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on the heat to ensure the toast doesn’t burn while still allowing the inside to cook through. If needed, add a little more butter to the skillet as you go.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Transfer the cooked French toast to a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh orange slices for an extra pop of citrus. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream will take it over the top.

Helpful Tips

• Use Thick Bread: Brioche or challah works best because they soak up the custard without becoming soggy.
• Fresh Orange Zest & Juice: Freshly squeezed juice provides a brighter flavor than store-bought, and the zest adds an extra layer of citrusy goodness.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter French toast, you can increase the sugar in the custard or add a bit of honey.
• Keep Warm While Cooking in Batches: Place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm while you finish cooking the rest.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: French-Inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• If you don’t have brioche, you can use Texas toast or thick-cut white bread.
• The orange flavor can be adjusted—add more zest for a stronger citrus taste or reduce it for a milder version.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet for best results.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 12g
• Sugar: 14g
• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using it in the morning.

What’s the Best Bread for French Toast?

Brioche and challah are ideal because they’re soft and absorb the custard well while staying intact. Thick-cut white bread can also work in a pinch.

Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or oat milk. Just note that the texture might be slightly different.

How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a toaster oven or rewarm in a skillet over low heat to keep it crispy.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Orange French Toast, you might also enjoy these breakfast favorites:

• The Ultimate French Toast: A Cozy Breakfast Classic
• Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Cubes
• Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
• Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Conclusion

This Orange French Toast is the ultimate way to brighten up your morning. The combination of warm, custardy bread with the fresh, citrusy flavor of oranges creates a breakfast that feels luxurious yet easy to make. Whether you’re treating yourself or making it for loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

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